The Latest - trying to get off the ventilator

Joe is still in the ICU at Coffeyville Regional Medical Center (Kansas). While his surgery on Friday went fine, the latest obstacle is the ventilator (breathing assistance via tube) which was inserted in advance of the surgery. On Saturday morning, they tried to wean Joe off the ventilator, but his blood pressure and heart rate got too high in the process, so they kept the tube in and let his body rest and recuperate for the day with the goal of trying again on Sunday. Joe's lungs are weak and in distress due to pneumonia.

Unfortunately, Joe had a rough night Saturday night, running a fever and producing more fluid in and around his lungs. They were able to drain the fluid and the doctors decided to give him the day off again, giving him antibiotics and letting his body recover a bit longer.

Over the course of the weekend, Vicki, Ben & SallyAnn spent time on and off with Joe, letting him know the love and support he has behind him. Ben & SallyAnn returned to Kansas City on Sunday evening to begin another work week. It was hard to leave, but we had a good weekend coming together and supporting each other as a family.

Vicki spent this morning (Monday, May 2nd) at Joe's side. His doctors decided not to try to wean him off the ventilator today, with the goal of trying tomorrow. If needed, they should be able to drain his lungs prior to weaning.

To allow his body to relax and heal, he has been on pain killers and in a drug-induced paralysis, but today he was allowed more consciousness and was able to interact with Vicki. She said:

"It was awesome being able to get responses from him...except when he shook his head 'no' to my being able to sing and 'yes' to Sally's singing :0"

Even though Joe cannot speak with the ventilator in, they said the Lord's Prayer together - Joe with perfect lip movement.

Please pray that Joe's lungs will respond to the antibiotics and he will be strong enough for the doctors to get the ventilator out safely.